The 1970’s weren’t just about big hair, leisure suits, and waterbeds. This decade was also a time of tremendous innovation. Barcodes, e-mail, laser printers, video games, personal computers, and genetic engineering all made their debut in the 1970’s. Not surprisingly, this was also a time of horological excellence, with many watchmakers introducing some of their most innovative and enduring designs. One of these groundbreaking timepieces was the original Fortis Marinemaster.

As a tribute to this iconic timepiece, Fortis is re-issuing it in a special limited edition of 500 pieces. The Fortis Marinemaster Vintage 800.20.85 L.01 remains faithful to the original design while incorporating technological advancements that make the historic chronograph even better. A proprietary Fortis caliber 2020 automatic movement, based on the reliable Swiss made ETA 2892, now powers this vintage masterpiece. With a modified chronograph module, 47 jewels, a fine timing device and Incabloc shock absorber, this superb timing tool is an improvement on the earlier Marinemaster.

Like its 1970’s namesake, the Marinemaster Vintage 800.20.85 L.01 watch features a three-part 40 mm stainless steel case, a specially coated domed PMMA acrylic crystal, an exhibition caseback, and a unidirectional rotating bezel with a clearly marked 60-minute aluminum insert ring. The beautiful black dial features three perfectly placed blue sub-dials at 3 o’clock, 6 o’clock, and 9 o’clock for timing events. There is also a precisely engraved tachymeter scale circumscribed around the edge of the chapter ring.

The 800.20.85 L.01 Fortis Marinemaster Vintage has a highly polished, and period correct, stainless steel case that is water resistant to 165 feet. The vintage chronograph has been fitted with a beautiful black genuine leather strap with contrasting top stitching, just like the 1970’s original.

If you’d like to own one of the iconic timepieces that made Fortis a favorite among pilots, astronauts, and sailors, this is your chance. With only 500 copies available worldwide, this faithful recreation of a Fortis masterpiece won’t last long. To put a piece of history on your wrist, contact an authorized Fortis dealer immediately and reserve your Fortis 800.20.85 L.01 Marinemaster Vintage watch today.